The Delta State Police Command has killed two suspected kidnappers and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, and other weapons during a fierce gun battle in Ughelli North Local Council.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, who confirmed the incident, said Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda had earlier ordered an intelligence-led operation following a surge in kidnapping and armed robbery cases around the Upper Agbarho axis of Ughelli and neighbouring communities.

Acting on credible intelligence, the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), led by ASP Julius Robinson, trailed the syndicate across Delta, Rivers, and Imo states.

“The operation led to the arrest of two prime suspects: Abubakar Musa (28) from Ajase, Kwara State, and Yusuf Sale (25) from Bauchi State, who were apprehended in Port Harcourt and Owerri on October 2 and 4, 2025, respectively.

“Upon interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to multiple kidnappings in the area and led operatives to a forest between Upper Agbarho and Oviri-Ogor communities, where a cache of arms was hidden,” he said.

According to Edafe, the police team recovered one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 43 rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun, and a locally made pistol.

“However, while exiting the bush, the operatives were ambushed by other gang members who attempted to rescue their captured accomplices.

“A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, leaving the arrested suspects and some of their cohorts critically injured. Two police operatives also sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter,” Edafe added.

The wounded suspects were rushed to a nearby hospital, but were confirmed dead while receiving treatment. The injured officers are said to be receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital, while a manhunt for the fleeing gang members is ongoing.

Edafe also confirmed that the State Anti-Cult Unit (SACU), acting on intelligence over renewed cult clashes in Jesse, Ethiope West Local Council, raided a criminal hideout on Sylvester Street, Jesse town, used as a meeting point for planning attacks and stockpiling arms.

“During the raid, the operatives arrested 12 suspected cultists, including one Mudiaga Obey (20), and recovered one Beretta pistol and a live round of ammunition. The suspects are currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing to unravel their network and sponsors,” he said.